Syracuse University football team's game plan for tackling USC: How it unfolded

Syracuse University football coach Doug Marrone cheers on his defense after it stopped a fourth-down try by USC early in Saturday's 42-29 Trojan victory at MetLife Stadium.Frank Ordoñez / The Post-Standard

Syracuse, NY -- The Syracuse University football team fell to No. 2 USC 42-29 Saturday at MetLife Stadium in the Meadowlands. On the eve of the game coach Doug Marrone discussed the game plan for his offense, defense and special teams.

Some parts of the plan unfolded exactly how Marrone envisioned; others did not. SU (0-2), nearly a four-touchdown underdog, closed a 21-3 deficit to 21-16 and had possession of the ball as the fourth quarter opened. A 31-yard punt return and a 76-yard run on a reverse by USC star receiver Robert Woods then helped the Trojans (2-0) prevail, although afterward they were impressed with the way the Orange played.

“They played hard,” tight end Xavier Grimble said. “They played a lot harder than they did last year. I think their overall scheme and just the guys sticking to the plan was a lot better.”

“Amazingly,” wide receiver Marqise Lee said when asked if he thought SU was an improved team. “They are a way better team, but we knew that coming out. They did an amazing job.”